KUWAIT CITY, Feb 1: Kuwait will officially begin its National Day celebrations on Sunday with a flag-hoisting ceremony under the patronage and presence of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. The event will mark the start of festivities commemorating the country's 64th National Day and 34th Liberation Day, providing an opportunity to reflect on Kuwait's rich history, milestones, and achievements under its leadership. These national holidays are deeply cherished in the hearts of the Kuwaiti people, as they honor the nation's glorious journey and the progress made across various fields under the wise leadership of the country’s rulers.

This year’s celebrations carry additional significance as they coincide with Kuwait being named the Arab Capital of Culture and Media for 2025. This prestigious designation provides an opportunity to showcase the nation's accomplishments in culture, media, and the arts while positioning Kuwait as a key player in fostering cultural dialogue and collaboration between nations.

The Kuwaiti flag has undergone several transformations throughout the country's history before reaching its current form. On September 7, 1961, the late Amir Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah issued an Amiri decree to adopt the current flag, which was officially raised for the first time on November 24, 1961, during a grand celebratory event that swept across the country. The flag's colors—black, white, red, and green—were inspired by two verses from the Arab poet Safi Al-Din Al-Hilli, symbolizing the nation’s virtues and character: "We are a people whose morals, out of generosity, refuse to start harming those who do not harm us. Our deeds are white, our events are black, our pastures are green, and our pastures are red."

Before the adoption of the current design, Kuwait had used several variations of the flag, including a crescent and star and a red flag with the word “Kuwait” in white. The present flag, with its distinctive black, white, red, and green colors, has since become a strong symbol of the country's unity and pride.

Flag-hoisting ceremonies will be held across all six governorates of Kuwait, officially launching the national celebrations. Streets and government buildings will be adorned with portraits of His Highness the Amir, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, and the Kuwaiti flag, creating a festive and joyful atmosphere throughout the country.

On this occasion, Kuwait reflects on its achievements on the local, regional, and international levels, which have contributed to the country's elevated status among both sister and friendly nations. These accomplishments are attributed to the wisdom of Kuwait’s leadership, which has guided the country toward continued prosperity. Kuwait also recalls its National Day, which marks the country's independence and its steady progress on the global stage, where it has fostered strong ties with Arab and friendly nations while striving for peace and security through its proactive foreign policy.

The 34th anniversary of Kuwait's Liberation Day is particularly poignant, as it commemorates the country's liberation from the brutal Iraqi invasion. The nation honors the sacrifices of its martyrs, whose courage and dedication were instrumental in securing Kuwait’s freedom. Their contributions remain an enduring symbol of sacrifice and patriotism.

The national celebrations serve to strengthen the unity and solidarity of the Kuwaiti people, drawing inspiration from the sacrifices made by past generations who gave everything for the nation's elevation. These occasions instill pride in the ongoing progress of the country, while reinforcing the commitment of Kuwaitis to the continued growth and prosperity of their beloved nation.